A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Grand Teton National Park vs. Denali National Park for Hiking, Couples, Backpackers, and Resorts

Should you visit Grand Teton National Park or Denali National Park?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Grand Teton National Park or Denali National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a vast, spectacular, and impressive park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking.

Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a epic, vast, and rugged park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Grand Teton National Park and Denali National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Denali (Mount McKinley)
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less hiking options


Is there more to do in Grand Teton National Park or Denali National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Grand Teton National Park. Although Grand Teton National Park and Denali National Park are popular destinations, Grand Teton National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Grand Teton National Park is famous for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife. It is also well known for Jenny Lake. Denali National Park is famous for its vast wilderness and iconic Alaskan wildlife.

How is Grand Teton National Park different from Denali National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Denali National Park and Grand Teton National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Grand Teton National Park or Denali National Park?

Grand Teton National Park
Denali National Park

Spend time exploring the reasonable sights and museums in either Grand Teton National Park or Denali National Park.

While most people don't head to Grand Teton National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The Visitor Centers have exhibits and other informational sessions.

Denali National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Denali's Museum Collection includes more than 25,000 different items that reflect the region's history, culture, and geology.


Is the Food Better in Grand Teton National Park or Denali National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Grand Teton National Park
Denali National Park

Both Grand Teton National Park and Denali National Park offer a number of reasonable restaurants to choose from.

Grand Teton National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a number of restaurants and cafes around the park where you can enjoy a meal, often with a view.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Denali National Park. During the summer months there are restaurants open along Highway 3 as well as the Morino Grill near the Denali Visitor Center.

Is Grand Teton National Park or Denali National Park Better for Nightlife?

Grand Teton National Park
Denali National Park

Grand Teton National Park is adequate for nightlife and partying. However, Denali National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

Grand Teton National Park doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There's a lounge at Jackson Lake Lodge, but most visitors enjoy a relaxing night in.

People don't go to Denali National Park for the nightlife. Visitors come to the park to see the nature, not for the nightlife.

Is Grand Teton National Park or Denali National Park Better for Resorts?

Grand Teton National Park
Denali National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a great park for its luxury resorts. Also, Denali National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for its resorts.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Grand Teton National Park. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.

Denali National Park has a few great resort options. Most visitors stay nearby the Denali Park Entrance. It has the most affordable hotels and lodges, some of which have a lot of personality. Alternatively, you could stay in the more remote area of Kantishna. These lodges are more expensive and all-inclusive, but they are also far away from most conveniences.


Is Grand Teton National Park or Denali National Park Better for Hiking?

Grand Teton National Park
Denali National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a must-visit destination for hiking. Also, Denali National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Grand Teton National Park specifically for its hiking. Grand Teton National Park has more than 250 miles of trails that make their way through the mountains and around the rugged landscapes. There are hikes that range from short strolls to backcountry, mult-day trails and it's not uncommon to see wildlife.

Denali National Park has hiking trails worth exploring. If you're looking for a marked trail, there are limited options within the park. Those that do exist are located near the park entrance and are usually just a couple of miles long. Off-trail hiking is what makes for the most memorable experience. Make sure you stop off at the visitor center for information and knowledge before you venture into the wilderness without a trail. For obvious reasons, you should fully understand what this entails before beginning your adventure.

Is the Shopping Better in Grand Teton National Park or Denali National Park?

Grand Teton National Park
Denali National Park

If you're looking to go shopping, Grand Teton National Park and Denali National Park both offer plenty of reasonable spots.

Grand Teton National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are park stores where you can pick up souvenirs or gifts.

If you're looking to go shopping, Denali National Park has some nice offerings. There are several park stores and shops in and near the park where you can pick up gifts, books, and souvenirs.

Is Grand Teton National Park or Denali National Park Better for Families?

Grand Teton National Park
Denali National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a great park for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Denali National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Grand Teton National Park is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy the hiking and wildlife spotting. There's also horseback riding and Ranger Programs that are designed for all ages.

Denali National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. Most people visit the park as part of a tour, so it's important to book a tour that is designed with families in mind. This will help ensure the kids stay entertained even during long bus rides.


Is Grand Teton National Park or Denali National Park Better for Couples?

Grand Teton National Park
Denali National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Denali National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Grand Teton National Park has plenty to offer. With its stunning mountain views and scenic hikes, couples will be surrounded by romance. Many people visit the park for their honeymoon, or even for the wedding itself, and the setting couldn't be more spectacular.

Denali National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy outdoor adventures and stunning scenery will find the ultimate romance in this impressive park.

Is Grand Teton National Park or Denali National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grand Teton National Park
Denali National Park

For backpackers, both Grand Teton National Park and Denali National Park are world-class places to visit.

Many backpackers frequent Grand Teton National Park. There are hostels, campgrounds, and backcountry hiking and camping that backpackers really enjoy.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Denali National Park. There are millions of acres in the park as well as campgrounds, hostels, and vast backcountry (which requires a permit).

Is Grand Teton National Park or Denali National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Grand Teton National Park
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Denali National Park. There are free shuttle buses that leave from the entrance area, but many visitors organize a tour to get around.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Grand Teton National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.


Is Grand Teton National Park or Denali National Park a more walkable city?

Grand Teton National Park
Denali National Park

Grand Teton National Park is adequate for its high level of walkability. However, Denali National Park is not known for its ease of walking around.

Grand Teton National Park is generally not a very walkable park. You'll need a car to reach most of the trail heads.

Denali National Park is not a walkable park. The park is vast and you need some form of transportation to get around, whether it's a private vehicle or a pre-arranged tour.

For even more information, also check out Is Grand Teton National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Denali National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Denali National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

How long in Grand Teton National Park or Denali National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Grand Teton National Park or Denali National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Grand Teton National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Grand Teton National Park, and 2-4 days is enough time in Denali National Park.

Families should spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than Denali National Park. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Grand Teton National Park, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than Denali National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Grand Teton National Park that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than Denali National Park if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Grand Teton National Park.


  • How many days in Grand Teton National Park or Denali National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Grand Teton National Park 3-7 
    Denali National Park 2-4

One day in Grand Teton National Park or Denali National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Grand Teton National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the rugged park of Denali National Park. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Grand Teton National Park or Denali National Park?

Grand Teton National Park is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Denali National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.


Five days in Grand Teton National Park or Denali National Park?

Many people visit Grand Teton National Park for five days. Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful park of Grand Teton National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer.

Denali National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

A week in Grand Teton National Park or Denali National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the spectacular destination of Grand Teton National Park. Many people spend one week here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Grand Teton National Park, one week is sufficent for most.

Denali National Park is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Denali National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Grand Teton National Park is $162, while the average daily cost in Denali National Park is $218. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Grand Teton National Park and Denali National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grand Teton National Park $79
    Denali National Park $116
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grand Teton National Park $158
    Denali National Park $232
Compare Hotels in Grand Teton National Park and Denali National Park

Looking for a hotel in Grand Teton National Park or Denali National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Grand Teton National Park


Hotels in Denali National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Grand Teton National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grand Teton National Park $52
    Denali National Park $76

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grand Teton National Park

Also for Grand Teton National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Luxury 4wd SUV To/From Transfer Jackson Hole Airport: $140
  • Private SUV Transfers to/ from Jackson Hole Airport JAC: $105

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Denali National Park

Also for Denali National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Shuttle Transfer: Anchorage ↔ Denali National Park: $150

Is it cheaper to fly into Grand Teton National Park or Denali National Park?

Prices for flights to both Denali National Park and Grand Teton National Park change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Grand Teton National Park $46
    Denali National Park $57

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Grand Teton National Park

For Grand Teton National Park, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Jackson Hole Chuckwagon Dinner: $75
  • Dinner Cookout Ride at Heart Six Ranch: $145

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grand Teton National Park $43
    Denali National Park $30

Tours and Activities in Grand Teton National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Grand Teton National Park.

  • Snake River Scenic Float Private Guided Tour: $225

Tours and Activities in Denali National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Denali National Park.

  • 2.5-Hour Denali Wilderness ATV Adventure Tour: $79
  • 3 Hour Naturalist Walking Tour in Denali National Park: $119
  • 4 Hour Off-Trail Wilderness Wonders Hiking Tour in Denali: $199
  • 5-Hour Mountain Hiking Tour in Denali: $169
  • Alaskan Back Country Side by Side ATV Adventure with Meal: $150
  • Authentical Denali Tour from Denali Park and Fairbanks: $260
  • Classic ATV Adventure with Back Country Dining: $150
  • Denali ATV Trailblazer 3.5 Hour Tour : $114
  • Denali National Park Walking Tour: $125
  • Denali Park Zipline Adventure: $165
  • Denali Self-Guided Jeep Adventure: $244
  • Half-Day Denali River Rafting Experience: $229

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grand Teton National Park $19
    Denali National Park $12


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Grand Teton National Park and Denali National Park, we can see that Denali National Park is more expensive. And not only is Grand Teton National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Grand Teton National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Grand Teton National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Denali National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Denali National Park than you might in Grand Teton National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Grand Teton National Park Expensive? and Is Denali National Park Expensive?.